Prominent Pakistani religious leader and parliamentarian Maulana Fazlur Rehman has issued a stark warning that 5-7 districts in Balochistan may declare independence, potentially gaining recognition from the United Nations. In a statement to the Pakistani parliament, he asserted that the country's current situation is critically weak and Pakistan could face a 1971-like scenario, referencing the secession of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh.
Balochistan's Disintegration and the Military's Role Questioned
Fazlur Rehman alleged that Pakistan's military controls the civilian government, fostering instability within the nation. He further stated that weakened governmental control often leads to geographical instability. Maulana's statement comes at a time when secessionist sentiment is growing in certain Balochistan districts, potentially leading to further disintegration of Pakistan.
Escalating Violence in Kurram Agency
Maulana Fazlur Rehman also expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Kurram, a northwestern region of Pakistan. This area has been a focal point of Shia-Sunni conflict for decades, and the latest fighting, which began in November, has claimed over 150 lives. Kurram, bordering Afghanistan, is virtually cut off from the world due to clashes involving heavily armed militants. Despite several ceasefire attempts, the violence persists.
Criticism of the Civilian Government
Maulana Fazlur Rehman leveled serious accusations against Pakistan's civilian government. He stated that if one were to ask the Prime Minister about the situation in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the tribal areas, the response would likely be a claim of ignorance. Without naming the military, he asserted that no civilian government in Pakistan holds genuine control.
Maulana claimed that an 'establishment' within Pakistan makes crucial decisions behind closed doors, with the civilian government forced to simply endorse these decisions. This statement raises serious questions about the increasing instability in Pakistan and the role of the civilian government.
Serious Consequences if Conflict Remains Unresolved
Concerning the instability and violence across various regions of Pakistan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman urged all parties to find a solution to the crisis. He warned that failure to address the situation promptly could lead to severe and far-reaching consequences.
